Acer has kicked off 2013 smartphone line-up with three new smartphones including Liquid E1, Z2, and C1. The detailed hardware specifications are still emerging. Initial feedback on pricing is interesting, in our view. It is reported the E1 will have a retail price for €199-299 and the Z2 for €99-129, suggesting Acer is attacking the low-to mid-range smartphone market. These smartphones are expected to go on sale in Belgium, France, the Netherlands, and Ukraine, with availability in Italy, Russia, and the UK later this year.
Comparison of Acer Liquid E1 Liquid Z2 Liquid C1 Affordable SmartPhones
The launch of these devices certainly supports this strategy, and the roll-out of the phones suggests it is starting with its key region of strength, Europe, and a smart first step. We do not disagree with the need for Acer to push a smartphone strategy, for reasons similar to that of Asus.